How to Design an Office on a Shoestring Budget
- 1). Come up with a budget. Make a list of things you absolutely need to operate your office. Decide exactly how much you want to spend, then stick to your budget and avoid unnecessary expenses.
- 2). Draw a floor plan. Include all the items you need to make your office a comfortable place to do business and meet clients. What are your furniture needs? What size space do you have and how much furniture will fit? Think of at least three color schemes or theme ideas for your office.
- 3). Take inventory. Uncover useful items you have in your garage, attic or around the house. Rescue old lamps, table cloths, area rugs, fabric or decorative pieces from storage and try to incorporate them into your office design. In many instances, simply painting an item will bring it to life and make it look new. Contact friends and family members. They may have old items they plan to throw away. Inquire about furniture, office supplies and even decorative pieces like vases, paintings and other wall accessories.
- 4). Search the Internet. Look for furniture deals on sites like Ebay, Overstock.com and the Goodwill's Online Auction site. Narrow your search to items with free or reduced shipping costs. Join the Freecycle Network online to see if anyone is giving away furniture in your area. Check Craigslist for announcements from businesses who are closing their doors or remodeling. They may have furniture they're willing to part with at inexpensive prices.
- 5). Visit local thrift stores. You can often find furniture at places like the Salvation Army and Goodwill. Select desks, chairs, bookcases, items for storage solutions and filing cabinets. You may have to visit a couple of locations to find everything you need, but the low prices will be well worth the hunt.
- 6). Go yard sale hunting. You can find items such as office furniture and accessories, computers and telephones; you may even come across office supplies.
- 7). Host a painting party. Invite family and friends to help you cover the walls in a signature color and create custom art pieces on canvas. Visit your local arts and craft store to pick up blank canvases, paint and paint brushes, then have everyone contribute a masterpiece for the walls.